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Newcastle Viral Infection in Birds

Newcastle Disease

Newcastle disease is a viral infection that is usually seen in poultry, but it can also affect pet birds. Newcastle disease, which causes various lung and airway disorders in birds, unfortunately has no cure or treatment for it. Birds affected with this disease can also quickly spread the infection to healthy birds.

Symptoms and Types

Symptoms for Newcastle disease include:

Appetite loss

Weight loss

Sneezing

Nasal discharge

Eye discharge

Breathing problems

Diarrhea (usually bright yellow or green in color)

Loss of coordination

Spasms

Head bobbing

Advanced stages of Newcastle disease can cause jerky, involuntary movements, paralysis of the legs or wings, twisting of the neck, an unnatural head position, and dilation of the pupils in birds. However, not all infected birds display symptoms, and may die suddenly before any become apparent.

Causes

Newcastle disease is spread through respiratory discharge found in the air, contaminated food and water, feces, and contaminated environments (e.g., cages and nest boxes). However, direct contact with infected birds is the main cause for this disease.